Can Dogs Eat Salmon? Cooked vs Raw Fish Risks

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Salmon is a nutritional star. It supplies high-quality protein and the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, which are prized for skin, coat and joints. Many dog foods contain it. But serving it at home calls for care, especially with raw fish.

Nutrition

Salmon provides protein, vitamin D, B vitamins, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids. These fats support skin health, coat condition and may help reduce inflammation. See our guide to fat and omega fatty acids and fish oil for dogs.

Salmon poisoning disease

Raw or undercooked salmon, trout and some other fish from certain regions, particularly the Pacific Northwest of North America, can carry a fluke that is infected with a bacterium called Neorickettsia helminthoeca. Dogs that eat infected fish can develop salmon poisoning disease. Signs appear within days and include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy, loss of appetite and swollen lymph nodes. Without prompt treatment it can be fatal. Thorough cooking or freezing according to guidelines kills the parasite, but cooking is the safest approach. If your dog eats raw fish, call your vet.

Other raw fish risks

Raw fish can also carry bacteria such as Salmonella, and parasites. It may also contain an enzyme that breaks down thiamine. For most dogs, cooked fish is the safer choice. See our raw feeding guide.

How to cook salmon for dogs

1. Remove all bones, including tiny pin bones.
2. Cook thoroughly by baking, steaming or poaching, with no oil, salt, butter or seasoning.
3. Remove skin if the fish is very fatty.
4. Cool and flake into small pieces.

How much?

Salmon is rich, and large amounts can upset the stomach or trigger pancreatitis. Treats should be no more than about ten percent of daily calories. A tablespoon or two of flaked salmon is plenty for a small dog, and a little more for a large dog, occasionally. See pancreatitis diets.

Smoked and canned salmon

• Smoked salmon is high in salt and may be raw, so avoid it.
• Canned salmon is fine if packed in water with no added salt, and bones softened. Drain well.
• Salmon with sauces, garlic or onion should never be shared. See onions and garlic.

Mercury and contaminants

Larger, long-lived fish can contain more mercury. Salmon is generally lower in mercury than tuna, but sourcing matters. See our guide to tuna for dogs.

Salmon in dog food and oil

Many commercial foods use salmon or salmon oil. These are formulated to be safe and balanced. Fish oil supplements are an easy way to add omega-3s. Ask your vet before adding them.

Allergies

Fish allergy is uncommon in dogs but possible. Watch for itching, ear problems and digestive upset.

Choosing and storing salmon

Buy fresh fillets from a trusted fishmonger and cook them the day you buy them, or freeze portions for later. Keep cooked salmon in the fridge for no more than two days. Wild and farmed salmon both work, but avoid fish treated with heavy seasoning or marinades. If you choose canned salmon, rinse off excess brine and check the ingredients for salt, oil or flavorings.

Salmon skin

Cooked salmon skin is very fatty. A small crisp piece is unlikely to hurt a healthy dog, but it can trigger digestive upset or pancreatitis in sensitive dogs. Remove the skin for dogs that are prone to stomach trouble, overweight or have a history of pancreatitis. Scales can also be irritating and should be removed.

Fish oil as an alternative

If you mainly want omega-3s for skin or joints, a veterinary-approved fish oil may be easier and safer than regular fish treats. Dosing depends on weight and diet, so ask your vet instead of guessing. Store fish oil as directed, since it can go rancid.

The takeaway

Cooked, boneless salmon is a healthy treat. Avoid raw fish, smoked salmon and seasoned products, and keep portions small.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.